Sarawak processes 13,224 identity applications: 5,776 approved, over half rejected, 715 pending

Abdul Karim addressing a question-and-answer session at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Sitting on May 14, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, May 14: TThe Steering Committee Meeting of the Special Task Force (PPK) has approved 5,776 out of 13,224 applications for various identity documents submitted from divisions across Sarawak.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the meeting was jointly chaired by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the Minister of Home Affairs on Jan 20, 2026.

“For the Bukit Semuja constituency, which covers the districts of Serian and Siburan, a total of 339 applications were received and processed.

“Of these, 84 applications were approved and will be issued identity documents, 242 applications were unsuccessful, while another 13 applications are still undergoing further investigation,” he said in reply to Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus during the question-and-answer session in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Sitting today.

Abdul Karim explained that applications were rejected if the applicants were holders of birth certificates for children below 12 years old, Temporary Resident Identity Cards (MyKAS), Malaysian Permanent Resident Identity Cards (MyPR), passport holders, or individuals born outside Sarawak without supporting documents.

He added that cases requiring further investigation involved incomplete documentation or the need for DNA testing.

Abdul Karim also outlined seven categories of identity document applications:

• Category 1: Without Identity Documents
• Category 2: Holders of Birth Certificates Above 12 Years Old
• Category 3: Holders of Birth Certificates Below 12 Years Old
• Category 4: MyKAS Holders
• Category 5: MyPR/Passport Holders
• Category 6: No Documents — Born Outside Sarawak
• Category 7: Others

“Out of the total 13,224 applications received, 5,776 applications, or 44 per cent, were approved, while 6,733 applications, or 51 per cent, were rejected. The remaining 715 applications, or 5 per cent, require further investigation,” he said. — DayakDaily